Royal Palace of Olite
Navarra, Comunidad Foral de
The Royal Palace of Olite, located in the town of Olite in Navarre, Spain, is a remarkable castle-palace that served as one of the main seats of the Kingdom of Navarre's court. Originating from a 13th-century Roman fortification, it was expanded notably during the reign of Charles III "the Noble" in the 14th century, becoming a magnificent Gothic palace with numerous towers and gilded rooms. The palace complex consists of three main parts: the Old Palace, the New Palace, and the church of Santa María la Real. The Old Palace, characterized by its rectangular courtyard and Gothic elements, includes surviving towers such as Torre de San Jorge and Torre de la Prisión. The New Palace, built later, reflected the royal court's evolving needs and grandeur. Although severely damaged by fire in 1813 during the Napoleonic invasion, the palace was meticulously restored between 1937 and 1967, reviving much of its original splendor. Today, it stands as a cultural monument and a vivid testament to Navarre's medieval heritage, attracting visitors with its architectural beauty, historical significance, and panoramic views from its towers.
Pianifica il tuo viaggio in Spagna con l'IA
Crea un itinerario dettagliato in pochi minuti. L'IA suggerisce i migliori luoghi, ristoranti e un percorso ottimizzato.
Consiglio: Visitors are advised to explore the palace at a leisurely pace to fully appreciate the architecture and history, with guided tours available offering detailed historical insights. The best time to visit is during spring and early autumn when weather is pleasant. Tickets can be purchased online in advance to avoid queues, and discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. The palace also hosts medieval fairs and cultural events that enrich the visitor experience, so checking the official website for event schedules is recommended.
Fatti interessanti
- •A 15th-century German traveler praised the palace's magnificence and gilded rooms in a diary now held at the British Museum.
- •The palace was burned in 1813 during the Napoleonic invasion to prevent its use by French troops.
- •The Old Palace currently operates as the Parador de Turismo hotel "Principe de Viana".
- •The palace's restoration from 1937 to 1967 was funded by the Foral Government of Navarre.
- •The main façade of the Old Palace bears the coat of arms of Philip II of Spain, restored in 1584 and still visible today.
Storia
The Royal Palace of Olite was originally constructed on a Roman fortification in the 13th century under King Sancho VII "the Strong" and was expanded by his successors.
It became a royal residence intermittently used by Navarrese kings, notably Charles II and Charles III "the Noble" during the 14th century.
Following the annexation of Navarre by Castile in 1512, the palace's importance declined, serving as a residence for viceroys.
In 1813, it was heavily damaged by fire set by guerrilla forces to prevent French occupation during the Napoleonic Wars.
Restoration efforts began in 1937 and lasted 30 years, led by architects José and Javier Yarnoz Larrosa, restoring much of the palace's medieval appearance and preserving it as a cultural landmark.
Guida del luogo
Old Palace (Palacio Viejo)13th century
The 13th-century Gothic Old Palace features a rectangular courtyard surrounded by chambers such as the Long Chamber and the Chamber of Doña Juana. It includes four surviving towers, each with historical significance, although much of the interior was lost over time. It now functions as a hotel but retains its Gothic façade and towers.
New Palace (Palacio Nuevo)14th century
Constructed in the 14th century under King Charles III "the Noble," the New Palace was designed to serve as the main royal residence with elaborate Gothic architecture, towers, and richly decorated rooms. It was the heart of the Navarrese court until the early 16th century.
Church of Santa María la Real
An integral part of the palace complex, this church survived the 1813 fire and remains a significant religious and architectural element within the palace grounds.
Contatto
Telefono: 691 02 16 67
